The bill amends the Michigan strategic fund act to establish the Michigan defense center, which is tasked with focusing on job creation and retention related to homeland security and defense contracts. The center will coordinate with APEX Accelerators to enhance business opportunities for small businesses and prioritize support for municipalities affected by manufacturing layoffs. It sets a performance objective to increase defense contracts awarded to Michigan-based businesses and outlines the need for resources to meet this objective. Additionally, the center is required to hire an executive director and support staff, with the possibility of expanding staff based on an approved business plan.

Key changes in the bill include the replacement of "procurement technical assistance center" with "APEX Accelerator" throughout the text, reflecting a shift in terminology. The bill also specifies that the Michigan defense center must not use state funds for constructing or renovating its own facilities. Furthermore, it mandates that any APEX Accelerator receiving funding from the Michigan defense center must report annually on the use of those funds and the contracts obtained in the previous year. The bill aims to enhance the state's capacity to support defense-related business initiatives and improve economic conditions in affected areas.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 125.1972
As Passed by the Senate: 125.1972